We had a busy summer at Beacon Place! A record numbers of kids attended, and parents and families became more involved and were able to experience the program alongside their children.  There were many meals, stories, and laughs shared throughout these past three months. Here's a look at our summer program by the numbers:

The Moms Group, meeting under the shade tree and learning about safety from the Waukegan Police Department.

Beacon Place is not just for kids! A number of moms, dads, grandmas and neighbors come through our doors as well!

 

This summer, more than 75 different women attended our Moms Group that met each Monday and Thursday during the Summer Lunch Bunch Program. These women, of all different ages and races, came together out of a desire to use the support they receive at Beacon Place to help themselves and their families.

 

The weekly program included informal english as a second language (ESL) work, as well as exposure to guest speakers. These speakers discussed relevant topics such as crime and safety (sponsored by the Waukegan Police Department and A Safe Place), nutrition and health (Rosalind Franklin University), financial management and saving (Wintrust Bank), emotional health of parents and kids (Arden Shore), understanding the education system (Waukegan Pubic Schools), and so much more.

 

The overarching theme of "I CAN!" was always present to emphasize self confidence. In the beginning of the program, the women made special bracelets with heart-shaped beads symbolizing their love, and their commitment to bring their children to Beacon Place. Throughout the summer, each time a new accomplishment was achieved, a new bead was added to the bracelet.

 

On the last day, each of the women shared what each bead represented. Their powerful statements reflected what they have learned and how they have grown through the support that they have found at Beacon Place.

 

           "I can play with my kids without needing to spend money."

           "I can speak some English without feeling embarrassed."

           "I can learn a lot from the others."

           "I can learn to cook and eat in a more healthy way."

           "I can recommend Beacon Place programs to other families as a safe place to bring

             their kids."

           "I can make new friends."

           "I can value myself as a woman and mother."

 

At Beacon Place, we value each individual and guide them to see their own opportunity and potential. Congratulations to all of our wonderful Moms for recognizing that "They Can!"

 

The Mom's Group will continue to meet throughout the school year. Their meetings will be held at Arden Shore in Waukegan until interior renovations are complete.

Deublin,Quest Products, and Classic Dealer Group for being lead sponsors in our first annual Beacon Place Walkathon!

Dear Friends,

 

Summer has come and gone once again.  This second summer at Beacon Place was a special one in many ways. We had beautiful weather, made great friends with volunteers and neighbors, developed new programs and established new relationships with caring businesses and individuals. Our moms were regular attendees under the shade tree and helped in many ways. The Walkathon was their gift back to Beacon Place - a wonderful way to show their appreciation. We could not have had such a positive experience without their help. 

 

Working together with the community is key to our success as an organization. We are here to provide structure and support, to listen, and to have some fun. Our work continues this fall. Please keep in touch with us via Facebook, our website, email or a phone call as we move into the fall season. There is much work to be done. 

 

My best,

  

Barb Karacic